Learn to speak basic Kiwi-ese, New Zealand Slang and Sayings

Like all countries, New Zealand has its own slang. Familiarise yourself with basic kiwi-ese words and sayings and you’ll be “away laughing”.

Pull on your jandals, togs and sunnies, pop some beers in the chilly bin and take a tiki tour to the beach! Didn’t understand a word? Then check out our Kiwi-English dictionary to tackle Kiwi-ese slang.

If a Kiwi asks you to pop down to the ‘dairy’, they’re not suggesting you milk a cow, they’re talking about going to what you might know as the corner shop or convenience store. Don’t let New Zealand slang confuse you – use the Kiwi-English translation guide below and ‘get to grips’ with basic Kiwi-ese.

Bach A basic holiday home, classically found at the beach or by a lake

Beehive The hive-shaped executive wing of New Zealand’s Parliamentary Buildings

Bloke The common man, the ordinary guy in the street

Boy-racer Young person in a fast car, usually with the stereo ‘cranked up’ (‘loud’!)